A Three-Dimensional Landscape
Mikael Rantalainen’s photography showcases his remarkable ability to perceive three-dimensional space and composition.
“As a child, I wanted to become an architect. I’ve always been fascinated by three-dimensionality, and spatial awareness comes naturally to me,” Mikael Rantalainen explains.
This talent is evident in his breathtaking landscape photography, where both the foreground and background offer something captivating. Even seemingly dull and gray landscapes are transformed by Rantalainen’s perspective, revealing depth that others might overlook. Yet, he insists that creating compelling landscape photos doesn’t require innate talent.
“If understanding space feels difficult, just experiment and move from one spot to another,” Rantalainen advises. “Don’t get stuck in one location – systematically explore different angles and try lowering your perspective to see if it improves the shot.”
The Five Elements of a Perfect Photo
Rantalainen often takes his course participants to the coastal landscapes of Helsinki, such as Kallahdenniemi, Kustaanmiekka, Uutela, or Lauttasaari. While these locations may be familiar, they change dramatically with the seasons and weather conditions.
“No location is always perfect – you need alternatives,” Rantalainen reminds.
According to Rantalainen, a great photo is built on five key elements. In addition to choosing the right 1) location, interesting 2) weather and beautiful 3) lighting are essential. These conditions require local knowledge, hard work, good decision-making, and a bit of luck. The remaining two factors, however, are entirely up to the photographer.
“4) Camera settings and 5) post-processing are within the photographer’s control,” Rantalainen says.
In addition to mastering basic settings, Rantalainen recommends learning a few advanced landscape photography and post processing techniques. These include exposure blending or HDR, that are based on merging exposures bracketed in camera, and focus stacking, which ensures that the entire scene remains sharp.
Equipment
Rantalainen uses Canon gear, with two R5 camera bodies that he often carries simultaneously. One is typically equipped with a wide-angle lens, while the other has a 100–500 mm or 70–200 mm lens. His wide-angle collection includes 15–35 mm, 24–70 mm, and 24–105 mm lenses. He also uses macro lenses for capturing intricate ice details, some fast prime wide angle lenses for night photography and Tilt & Shift lenses for keeping lines straight in architecture photography or achieving great depth of field with large apertures.
Among his other essential gear, Rantalainen highlights a remote shutter release – although a 2-second timer often achieves the same result by preventing camera shake during long exposures. For capturing flowing water, such as rapids, a neutral density filter is essential. Polarizing filters are beneficial for enhancing beautiful cloud formations in summer and vibrant autumn colors during the fall. Rantalainen enjoys winter photography, and for cold-weather shoots, he recommends knee pads to make kneeling more comfortable to capture low viewpoints and a rocket blower for removing snow from the camera.
“Since your breath is warm, you shouldn’t blow on the lens yourself,” he advises. “Microfiber cloths can also smudge snow onto the lens, though they are sometimes necessary.”
He emphasizes the importance of staying warm and safe, particularly in winter conditions, where ice cleats are an absolute must.
Learn more!
Welcome to experience Rantalainen’s winter landscapes in the -20°C Collection. You can find more stunning images on his Instagram and website.